Wood smoke contains fine particles that, when inhaled, could penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Health impacts from fine particles included premature death, hospitalisations (for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases) and restricted activity days.
The regional council was responsible for monitoring and managing the region’s air quality, making sure it did not exceed the national standards, which set a minimum level of health protection.
Senior regulatory project officer Marion Henton said everyone had a right to breathe clean air.
“The hidden harm from wood smoke cannot be ignored as there is clear evidence about the negative health impacts,” Henton said.
“While most in the community have already made the switch to cleaner heating, regardless of whether a burner is legal or not, all wood burners produce smoke, and smoke is harmful to humans.
“There is no safe level of air pollution, so reducing smoke from wood burners or avoiding wood burning altogether is the best thing you can do to breathe cleaner air in your home and neighbourhood.”
Residents who were unsure about the legality of their wood burners were encouraged to contact the Rotorua Lakes Council.
If you do have a compliant wood burner, make sure you:
For more information about improving Rotorua’s air quality, visit www.boprc.govt.nz/Rotorua-air.